Robert John Peters

Known as Bob, Mr. Peters was born May 20, 1927, in Ignacio, the son of John and Ethel Peters. He grew up in Durango, attended Durango schools and graduated from Durango High School in 1945.

Early in his work life, Mr. Peters delivered telegrams on his bicycle around Durango. He applied for a position at Turner Investment Corp., and once the owners and managers discovered him, they never let him go, his family said. Throughout the formation and development of new business ventures, Mr. Peters always was directly involved in the business’ growth. He was known for his great diligence, his caregivers said. He also worked for Bank of Durango, Bank of the Southwest and United Banks of Colorado.

“When we would start a new project, we would depend on Robert and keep him right by our side,” Nick Turner, owner of Turner Securities, once said. “He was a loyal employee,” the Turner family said.

Mr. Peters also was a helpful and dedicated member of First United Methodist Church in Durango. He used his financial savvy and time to assist and help grow the local congregation.

“He was beloved by our community, said Amy Allred, his friend and guardian. “He was a kind, grateful and generous man. He was reserved and sometimes shy, but always a gentleman.”

Mr. Peters enjoyed maintaining his home and associating with his neighbors. He spent many hours each day taking care of his Boston Terriers, including his most recent companion, Charley.

He is survived by his half-brother, Verdon Peters, of Pensacola, Fla.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2012, at First United Methodist Church, 2917 Aspen Drive. Burial will take place at Greenmount Cemetery in Durango.